Formica paleosibirica

Introduction

Formica paleosibirica is an extinct ant species known only from fossil specimens preserved in Late Eocene amber from the Bol'shaya Svetlovodnaya deposit in the Russian Far East . This species lived during the Late Eocene period, approximately 34-40 million years ago. Only male specimens have been described, with body lengths of 10-13 mm, along with detailed measurements of their wings, head structure, and genitalia . The species name combines 'palaios' (ancient) and 'Siberia' to reference its prehistoric origin . This species cannot be kept in captivity as it has been extinct for millions of years. Only fossil specimens exist in scientific collections. Antkeepers interested in similar Formica species should consider keeping common North American or European species like Formica rufa (red wood ant) or Formica fusca (black field ant), which are readily available and well-documented for captive care.